Ruckomechi Camp

Below the Kariba Dam the Zambezi becomes a big lazy river, meandering majestically between rich floodplains all the way to the Indian Ocean. On the southern shore is the exquisitely beautiful Mana Pools: a wildlife haven so precious that is has become a World Heritage Site. Here great herds of elephant, buffalo and antelope roam free, stalked by menacing lion prides and stealthy leopard. Four hundred species of birds such including malachite kingfishers, fish eagles and spectacular colonies of carmine bee eaters thrive in the abundant vegetation.

Sitting at the heart of this unique wildlife haven for the last twenty five years is Ruckomechi Camp, located right on the half mile wide Zambezi River. Ruckomechi is a place to disappear to; so remote that you feel you have the entire National Park to yourselves. There are hammocks slung between mahogany trees, a secluded riverside bathtub and hides where you can observe the baboon antics and elephant behaviour at leisure. Each of the 10 spacious tented rooms is beautifully designed with kingsize bed (or twins) ensuite bathroom, indoor and outdoor shower and a spacious decked verandah where you can sit with a good book and a pair of binoculars as the mighty river drifts slowly past.

Ruckomechi is also a place to enjoy exciting safari adventures. Go canoeing down the Zambezi in the afternoon and watch herds of elephant emerging from the floodplains down to the water’s edge to refresh themselves, to wallow and play in the cooling waters. Next morning at dawn take an unforgettable walk on the wild side with an experienced armed guide, tracking lion, zebra and eland, learning fascinating facts about the unspoiled bush.   After a delicious brunch and a siesta, set off by open vehicle across the Mana Pools grasslands, dotted with little “pools” and attractive forest to find lion prides preparing for the evening’s hunt. You may see a Mana elephant on its hind legs reaching into a sausage tree with its trunk for succulent pods. Round the day off aboard Ruckomechi’s river boat with your favourite sundowner as a big red African sun sets into the steely grey waters.

Back in camp the food is plentiful and delicious, and you can relax in the pool, in the lounge and the bar, all linked by generous areas of bleached decking. A visit to Mana Pools is an essential part of any Zimbabwe safari, and Ruckomechi Camp is our first choice every time.